is a Lebanese village in Aley. This region is famous for being calm; that’s why it is visited by thousands of tourists in summer! Plus, it’s a great destination for road trips! In the 19th and 20th century, Sawfar was a favorite summer destination for Beirut’s elites. The region was full of ravishing villas, among them the beautiful Donna Maria Sursock Residence.
The palace, which served as a summer residence, was built by Donna Maria’s husband in 1909. The Sursocks also had a hotel in the village, the Sofar Grand Hotel, which was built directly in front of the train station. The hotel-casino attracted gamblers in summer.
During the Lebanese civil war, militias looted and damaged the villa and the hotel. The residence is currently inhabited, but small steps are being taken to renovate the building.
Donna Maria Sursock Residence is currently being served as a wedding venue. The architecture and the design of the building attract a lot of people to visit it and take amazing shots!